Perspex buffing

[goldstar0011]

I'm working on a boot install and have some perspex I'd like to use but it's "dull", I remember using it back at school and getting it super clear but can't remember how.
Anyone know?

 

[Retepetsir]

You want to get rid of the cloudiness in it?

Afaik you use a VERY fine grade of wet/dry paper (i.e. 2000 grit), with some water and gently rub all over it.

Dont quote me on it, it might be worth a google!

Hope that helps.

 

[goldstar0011]

Have tried that, it helps smooth and clear but still is "cloudy"
In school I remember a machine that loked like a bent grinder but with buffer pads on the ends with "polish" on them, can't remember what though!

 

[Retepetsir]

Just try polishing then.........I would have thought any thing like Brass polish, etc might do it?

 

[goldstar0011]

will try that, cheers

 

[Andrew]

You need to wet and dry it first until it's almost clear. You probably aren't doing it right or enough if it is still cloudy. Last stage is the buffing machine, which has soft fabric pads and sticks of the right polish. It is almost impossible to get a flat shine though on anything big. I'd just buy new acrylic sheet.

 

[goldstar0011]

Acrylic, Dusk has just given me the same advice!
On the case, still gonna play with the perspex I got as have an idea for a cloudy neon effect.

 

[Dusk]

score some swirls into it or something then light it up..

 

[Andrew]

Acrylic, Dusk has just given me the same advice!

Perspex is just an ICI tradename for acrylic (polymethyl methacrylate)...